A full moon — indeed a blue moon — greeted Maderans at Wednesday’s annual Lifetime Achievement Awards dinner sponsored by the Madera Chamber of Commerce. Award founder and chairperson Melisa DaSilva offered this legend: “A blue moon is defined as a rare event,” DaSilva said. “The men and women we are honoring here tonight are very rare indeed as they provide service to their community and help for their neighbors as paramount.”

The 2013 class of honorees are Ronn Dominici, Stephen L. Frazier, Aftab A. Naz M.D., Marilyn Wibbenhorst and Dr. Lyle and Jan Zitek. This year’s memorial honoree was the late Bob Kahn. The common thread that ties these people together can be summed up in the way each of them responded to the news of their selection with the same question, “Why me?” That exemplifies their humble demeanor, as they were all surprised when informed of the honor, said Debi Bray president and CEO of the chamber.

The Holy Spouses Hall of St. Joachim’s School was festooned with congratulatory balloons and video screens showed photos of the honorees throughout their lives. In addition to owning businesses, contributing to the financial well-being of Madera, the recipients contributed untold hours to charity, service and civic organizations.

Ronn Dominici served 30 years with the California Highway Patrol and through his office founded the Sober Graduation program for Madera County. Among his other contributions, he served 12 years on the Madera County Board of Supervisors and founded the Madera Youth Pop Warner Football League. He also owned small businesses...